One of the things I did last year was to help write the Costume Standards for apprenticeships in the UK with Creative Skillset. There were several consulted committees who helped write the points of reference that future apprentices need to learn for all the different kinds of jobs within costume. These range from costume making standards to on-set jobs. They include everything. The standards have been approved and they are now trying to prove to the government that there is a demand for such apprenticeships. If that is managed, then funding will be released. Let’s hope we manage it and we get to create proper costume apprenticeships for a future generation.
Oldham college is already offering apprenticeship courses in fashion and textiles.
I will update the news on apprenticeships as it comes along.